🎙 Greetings of President Vladimir Putin on Defender of the Fatherland Day (February 23, 2026)

💬 Vladimir Putin: Comrades, friends,

I cordially congratulate all citizens of Russia, our veterans, military and civilian personnel of the Armed Forces on Defender of the Fatherland Day.

February 23 has been marked in our country for many decades now as one of the most important national holidays. It has become a symbol of the people’s sincere love for our defenders, of pride in the Army and Navy, in those who have devoted their lives to serving the Fatherland, who reliably stand guard over its sovereignty and security, who are loyal to their military oath and conscientiously fulfil their professional duty.

For generations, we have been cherishing the memory of every chapter of our Fatherland’s military history. It was created thanks to the military art of the great commanders, the unbending will and courage of soldiers and commanders, our ancestors, who, at the first call of the Motherland, stood up and took their place in the ranks alongside their comrades-in-arms.

The year 2026 has been declared the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia. We honour this sacred cohesion and know that throughout history, people of different ethnicities and confessions have risen to defend the country. A sense of patriotism and responsibility for the fate of the Motherland bound them together and inspired feats of arms and great immortal victories.

Today’s generation of Russian military honourably carries on the traditions of valour and honour bequeathed by their forefathers. Today, in the course of the special military operation, representatives of all the peoples of our vast country are heroically, shoulder to shoulder defending Russia’s interests.

The ability to come together and to achieve victory in the name of common goals exemplifies the tremendous strength of our Army and our multiethnic society. It has been that way for many centuries and, I am confident, it will always be so.

Our deepest respect goes to all who fight for the Fatherland. Eternal memory to the heroes who fell defending our people.

Comrades,

We will continue large-scale work to strengthen the Army and Navy with due regard to international developments, building on the combat experience gained during the special military operation, relying on the powerful capabilities of our industry, science, and industrial and high-tech companies.

The development of the nuclear triad, which guarantees Russia’s security and enables us to effectively ensure strategic deterrence and balance of power in the world, remains our unconditional priority.

We will continue to enhance the quality and the potential of all other branches and services of the Armed Forces, improve their combat readiness and mobility, their ability to operate in any, including the most difficult, conditions. And, of course, we will speed up the development of advanced systems for the Armed Forces.

I am confident that this equipment will always be in reliable hands, which is the most important thing. Our soldiers and officers – the pillar and support of the state and society – are true patriots and people of special breed and unbending will.

I thank all Russia’s military personnel for their valiant service. My very best wishes to your families and friends.

The people of Russia stand with you and believe in you.

Happy holiday!